February 19, 2025
The German Bible Society (GBS) has reported an encouraging increase in Bible distribution in 2024, with a total of 333,000 copies of Scripture shared in various translations and formats. This represents an increase of 11,000 copies compared to 2023, demonstrating a steady and growing demand for God’s Word.
“We are very pleased that the demand for Bibles has developed so well in the last year,” said Dr. Christoph Rösel, General Secretary of the German Bible Society. While sales of the Luther Bible saw a slight decline from 80,000 to 74,000 copies, other modern translations experienced significant growth. The Good News Bible saw a 20% increase, rising from 50,000 to nearly 60,000 copies.
The most remarkable growth came from the BasisBibel, a contemporary translation known for its clarity and accessibility. In 2024, over 100,000 copies were distributed, compared to 88,000 in the previous year.
“The demand for Bibles in modern, understandable language increased in 2024,” Rösel noted. “This is an encouraging development! The growing popularity of the BasisBibel shows that it is becoming firmly established and widely appreciated.”
Beyond full Bible editions, non-fiction books and theological resources also experienced growth. Sales in this category climbed from 11,000 to 15,000 copies, reflecting a rising interest in biblical studies and Christian education. Children’s and youth Bibles remained stable at 135,000 copies, showing continued engagement with younger readers. However, foreign-language Bibles saw a decline, from 66,000 copies in 2023 to 56,000 in 2024.
A crucial aspect of GBS ministry is providing scientific editions of the Bible in original languages, which serve as essential resources for scholars and Bible translators worldwide. Titles such as the Biblia Hebraica Stuttgartensia, the Greek New Testament, and the Nestle-Aland Novum Testamentum Graece saw a 25% increase in distribution, from 20,000 to 25,000 copies.
As demand for accessible Bible translations continues to grow, GBS remains committed to making Scripture available in formats that meet the needs of diverse audiences. Every Bible placed into the hands of a reader represents an opportunity for transformation, hope, and deeper engagement with God’s Word.
Original article appears on the German Bible Society’s website here.
